Psychological help for teens in Ontario

The Struggles Of Being A Teen

Teenage years are full of new experiences, which may bring about feelings of emotional distress, self-doubt, and worry. Some common themes reported by adolescents include, “I am bored”, “I feel lonely”, “I don’t fit in”, “school is so tough”, “I am not good enough.” Adolescence and young adulthood are exciting times of change and growth, yet challenges of identity and life transition are ever-present. Worries about peers, relationships, career choices, and school along with concerns about family members are present. Therefore, it may be hard to speak up as they do not want to burden others or feel like they are not liked.

In these moments, it may be difficult for a teen to seek out help. Some teens may wonder: What’s the point of seeing a therapist? How can a therapist actually help me? What is therapy even about?

If you are a teen experiencing distress, or a concerned parent wondering how to help your teen, you are not alone. To that effect, many adolescents have found relief in speaking with a therapist who specializes in assessing and treating the mental health challenges and concerns that adolescents experience. Keep reading to learn more about teen counselling.

What Does Teen Counselling Look Like?

The initial session is used to learn about your teen or adolescent and their struggles. Consequently, this information provides a good starting point to establish a comfortable client-therapist relationship and is subsequently used to facilitate future sessions. Whether it be through video or in-person sessions, creating a safe space sets the stage for the therapy process, and sessions are tailored to the individual’s strengths, interests, and needs. This is achieved through:

  • The use of evidence-based techniques as a fundamental basis for therapy
  • Integrating individual’s interests such as music, art, and games
  • Building conversations skills and testing out ideas
  • Role-playing and acting out scenarios
  • Capitalizing on how to use social media, which plays such an important role
  • The use of nature and mindfulness-based techniques
  • Humor and laughter along with acknowledging the pain and challenges of daily life
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Teens

The Impact Of Therapy During The Teen Years

A positive experience with a therapist who specializes in teen counselling provides individuals with the confidence and tools they need to overcome their negative experiences and alleviate their symptoms. Recognizing the need to seek support is the first step towards becoming a better and happier version of yourself. So, maybe some success stories may help you make up your mind. Here are some success stories of teens and young adults who sought therapy for their struggles:

Casey, (16)

Casey is in grade 11 and is finding the pressure of school and home very challenging. Furthermore, anxiety has been part of her life since she was a young child. She is an honor student and has focused on getting high marks. Casey described feeling lonely and bored without having interests or hobbies to pursue and friends. Activities such as: ordering food, asking for help at a store, and talking to others was a challenge. Consequently, he was open to counseling and began to allow herself to go out of her comfort zone. She is developing her interest in drawing and nature. The enthusiasm and shine in her eyes are visible when she speaks of her achievements.

Riley, (22)

Riley is a university student who has one more year of a bachelor’s degree and has questioned what to do next. He felt anxious throughout university and had difficulty with class presentations, group work, and meeting new people. Worries about being judged were present and impacted the way he approached his daily world. The low mood became an issue after returning home from school. Through counseling sessions, Riley was able to rekindle his areas of strength and interest and began to realize that he is not alone and could speak of issues bothering him alone. He is learning strategies to build social connections with others and deal with his anxieties. His amazing sense of humor and compassion for others is coming through.

How Can Teen Counselling Help?

CBT Psychology for Personal Development offers a goal-oriented approach to help adolescents work through their struggles. Using evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and mindfulness-based techniques, clients are provided with the tools they need to overcome their struggles. This can lead to maintaining good progress and achieving goals in the long term.

Our therapists at CBT Psychology for Personal Development are equipped to help adolescents struggling with:

Words From Janet Marmur, RSW, Teen Therapist

“I have had the opportunity of working with many youth and adults as a social worker. I have heard many stories of challenges and strengths. Listening to the woes, fears, and sadness in this ever-changing world has been extraordinary. Now more than ever, it has been important to listen, be present, and offer new ways of handling challenges which present themselves. Furthermore, I have been witness to words of “I am bored”, “I am lonely”, “I feel hopeless.” Given that, through dialogue and work together, we can help them through their frustrations amidst laughter and tears.”

“People ask me how the video platform is working and I can attest to positive results and interactions. To that effect, building a strong connection and a safe environment to share openly continues to be key to working together in counseling. As a social worker, the video and phone platforms have provided a relaxed atmosphere to interact and with youth and young adults. Furthermore, this helps them to unlock their voice and create a safe space to speak up and express their ideas.”

Additional Readings

What Is Social Anxiety In Teens?

Tips On Overcoming Social Anxiety In Teens

7 Tips For Teens With Social Anxiety

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Get in Touch

At CBT Psychology for Personal Development, there are therapists experienced in teen counselling here to help you. If you have a question regarding therapy for teens and adolescents or would like to request an appointment, call or text us at 905-597-4404 and you will be contacted within 24 business hours.